How to Protect Against Computer Virus

by **Admin** Wed May 15, 2013 8:09 am

A computer virus refers to a program or software that infects computers without the permission or knowledge of the user or owner and causes tremendous harm to computer files and programs. Your computer could be infected with different types of viruses like:

· Email Viruses – Spam and junk mails are identified and considered as viruses. Be careful that some mails cannot be detected and would directly place on your in-box. An email virus passes through an attachment or links then receiving messages. Hackers are expert to send infected messages on email addresses. Even without the requirement of a double-clicking, you will get the virus once you read the message. Your email is not the only one that could be infected – viruses have also the ability to run to your address book and automatically send virus-infected messages to your contact lists.

· Trojan Horses – This is the most popular type of a computer virus program. Yes, this is a program that disguises as a game or pop-ups that could erase your entire hard disk. This program can also be attached on emails. It has the power to control and operate your email including password.

· Worms – It is a small piece of software that replaces and copies itself to another computer or machine with the use of security hole. It can spread itself alone without a host program. Sometimes, it spreads like what Trojan horse does so try not to open attachments on advertised emails.

· Spyware and Adware – They all are all malware or software that could be installed on computer that collects information and infiltrate on programs without the knowledge or consent of the owner.

So here are a few tips on how to protect your computer against virus:

1. Install anti-virus software that detects any kind of viruses. Choose software created by a well-recommended company to ensure quality protection against virus. Some software does not merely work well. Also, always update your anti-virus software. Regardless of the sources and origins, make sure to scan all new programs or files.

2. Turn-on the firewall and keep your operating system updated. To avoid corruption in case of infection, execute regular backups to recover all data.

3. Use anti-virus tools like Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool that helps you remove unwanted software permanently. You only need to download, install and run the tool. This is a good way to block virus-infected software that keeps on reinstalling themselves.

4. Avoid the following sites: pornographic sites, Illegal music/movie downloading sites and other malicious websites that contain harmful scripts. They are often infected with Trojan horse and other types of virus. By downloading videos and songs, you are unconsciously keeping viruses to your computer.

5. Stop using illegal, fake anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Some people are too wise and good to attach viruses on software. They definitely know how to use anti-virus disguising as the spyware itself.

6. Scan all USBs, floppy and CD disks before using them. These are the common tools that easily carry viruses.

7. Scan the hard drive on a regular basis, usually about once a week.